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Minecraft A dedicated Nintendo Switch 2 version of Minecraft is on the way. Expect better visuals and enhanced lighting and shadow effects. Your Switch worlds carry over. It's due out at some point this year. Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 Saber Interactive's wonderful Warhammer 40,000 action game Space Marine 2 is coming to Nintendo Switch 2! I'm a massive fan of Space Marine 2, and Warhammer 40,000 generally, so it's cool to see Titus and friends make their way onto a Nintendo console. I'm really interested to see how the console copes with some of Space Marine 2's more performance-heavy sequences, particularly when there are hundreds of Tyranids on-screen at once. It's due out this holiday season, publisher Focus Entertainment said. Splatoon Raiders We got a fresh look at the single-player Splatoon Raiders, due out on July 23. There's a Splatoon Raiders Direct set for June 30, where we'll learn much more. Dragon Quest Monsters: The Withered World Scout, train and synthesize monsters to discover your new favourite companion in Dragon Quest Monsters: The Withered World, launching December 3 on Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake Nintendo closed out Nintendo Direct with confirmation of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake, which is due out at some point in 2026. We got a brief tease showing Link sleeping in his hut. Nintendo promised it will tell us more soon. Can't wait! Here's the official blurb: "The Nintendo 64 classic returns for a new generation in 2026, reborn exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2!"
Here's everything coming in the first wave of Xbox Game Pass additions for June 2026: Herdling (Game Pass Standard, Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, PC) — June 4 Total Chaos (Game Pass Standard, Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, PC) — June 4 Solarpunk (Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass | Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, PC) — June 8 Undisputed (Game Pass Ultimate, Standard, PC Game Pass | Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox Handheld, PC) — June 8 Persona 5 Royal (Game Pass Ultimate, Standard, PC Game Pass | Cloud, Console, PC) — June 9 Beastro (Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass | Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox Handheld, PC) — June 11 Frog Sqwad (Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass | Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, PC) — June 11 Starseeker: Astroneer Expeditions (Game Preview) (Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass | Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, PC) — June 11 Junkster (Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass | Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox Handheld, PC) — June 16 The lineup offers a nice mix of genres. Those who love survival games can look forward to Solarpunk, while RPG enthusiasts will undoubtedly be pleased to see Persona 5 Royal rejoin the service. Boxing fans can step into the ring in Undisputed, and sci-fi enthusiasts should keep an eye on Starseeker: Astroneer Expeditions.
The time has come for Amazon to lift the curtain on this month's set of freebies, which, as always, will be rolling out in weekly Thursday batches throughout the month. May brings a chance to stir up trouble in Empire Bay alongside Vito and Joe, uncover the mystery hidden on the moon, search for the fountain of youth… and enjoy more attractions. In total, subscribers will be getting 11 free games. As usual, you'll find the complete Prime Gaming May 2026 lineup in the section below. The first batch is already available. Amazon Luna / Prime Gaming May 2026 games Here we go: the current and upcoming freebies for the month! Check out the full Prime Gaming May 2026 lineup below, complete with release dates and the platforms where they can be redeemed. Mafia II: Definitive Edition (May 7, GOG Code) Fruitbus (May 7, GOG Code) Survival: Fountain of Youth (May 14, Amazon Games Code) 60 Minutes to Extinction: Escape Room (May 14, GOG Code) Lethal Honor: Order of the Apocalypse (May 14, Epic Games Store) Space Grunts (May 21, GOG Code) Palindrome Syndrome: Escape Room (May 21, GOG Code) Hot Brass (May 21, GOG Code) Nordic Storm Solitaire (May 28, Legacy Games Code) Moon Mystery (May 28, Epic Games Store) Pro Basketball Manager 2026 (May 28, Amazon Games Code) It's not the first time Prime Gaming has offered Mafia II: Definitive Edition for free, but if you missed it before, hey, it's a great game, and it's already up for grabs. The coming weeks will also bring the open-world Caribbean adventure Survival: Fountain of Youth, along with Moon Mystery, where players will shoot, solve puzzles, and explore lunar landscapes. Meanwhile, fans of escape rooms will find plenty of places to break out of in 60 Minutes to Extinction and Palindrome Syndrome.
PS Plus Essential May 2026 games Honestly, this time around it might be tough to pick an obvious headliner because all three titles are solid in their own way. Well, what do you think? The PS Plus Essential May 2026 games include: EA Sports FC 26 | PS5, PS4 Wuchang: Fallen Feathers | PS5 Nine Sols | PS5, PS4 Casual players and sports game veterans alike may want to check out whether EA Sports FC 26 adds anything worthwhile compared to previous entries. This edition introduces more responsive dribbling, two new gameplay presets, player archetypes, and more features and is probably the most immersive one yet… until the next one comes along. PS Plus members will also get a special EA Sports FC 26 Icons Pack with it. Wuchang: Fallen Feathers brings punishing Soulslike gameplay to China's Ming Dynasty. Playing as an amnesiac pirate warrior, you'll do what warriors do best: slash your way through "standard" enemies and punishing bosses alike. Last but not least, Nine Sols is a 2D Metroidvania with Sekiro-inspired combat and a "Taopunk" (Taoism + cyberpunk) setting. Embark on a quest to slay the titular Sols and explore every nook and cranny of New Kunlun along the way. All three new Essential titles will be available to subscribers starting May 5.
Spring Sale Part 2 - All PS4 & PS5 Discounts - Expires April 22 2026 ➃ = PS4 ➎ = PS5 ➃➎ = PS4 & PS5 same price ↑ = has been cheaper → = equal lowest ↘ = lower than ever Here's everything that hasn't been cheaper before, with a critic score of 75% or higher: https://www.dekudeals.com/hottest?filter%5Bcritic_score%5D=75&filter%5Bplatform%5D=%5Bps4%20ps5%5D&filter%5Bstore%5D=playstation_gb&filter%5Bdiscount%5D=lowest&include%5Ball_platforms%5D=true&page_size=all&sort=recent_drop Full Dale Details: Official PlayStation™Store UK
Bargain hunters, rejoice! A fresh batch of discounts has landed on the Xbox Store, with savings of up to 90% on both PC and Xbox games. If your library could use a few more titles and let's be honest, whose couldn't, now might be the perfect time to add something new. This week's selection may not be the biggest we've seen, but there are still several standout offers worth checking out. One of them is Ravenswatch, a top-down roguelike action game from the creators of Curse of the Dead Gods. Now 60% off, it lets you take control of twisted versions of iconic fairy tale and folklore characters such as Little Red Riding Hood and the Snow Queen, each with unique abilities. If you're in the mood for something darker, The Sinking City is currently available at a massive 90% discount. Inspired by the works of H.P. Lovecraft, this investigative adventure throws you into a flooded, decaying city filled with eldritch horrors and unsettling mysteries. Strategy and simulation fans shouldn't overlook Transport Fever 2, now 70% off. In this expansive management sim, you'll build and optimise a vast transportation network across land, sea, and air, connecting cities and shaping entire economies. https://www.xbox.com/en-GB/promotions/sales/sales-and-specials https://xbdeals.net/gb-store
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  • Persona 6 - Announce Trailer (TBD) (Xbox Game Pass) The highly anticipated next chapter of the iconic RPG series delivers a bold, new standalone story blending heartfelt daily life and new characters with pulse-pounding, supernatural adventure. Whether it's your first Persona game or you've been here since the beginning, this one's for you. Spyro: A Realm Beyond - Announce Trailer (Spring 2027) (Xbox Game Pass) Take flight on a brand-new adventure through a strange and wondrous realm. When Spyro™ finds himself stranded, his journey to discover a way home is interrupted by the arrival of a vicious invading force known as the Scavs. Spyro™ must make new allies and rise to protect this realm before it's changed forever. Feel the freedom of flight as you soar above vibrant landscapes, weave between treetops, dive off massive landmarks and wing your way through this new realm in Spyro™ 's boldest evolution yet. Carve your path through the skies and chain together dives, climbs and tight turns as you navigate the world your way. Crafted by Toys For Bob, this is a new evolution of Spyro™, built to send the purple dragon soaring higher than ever before. Clockwork Revolution - Console Exclusive Trailer (Spring 2027) (Xbox Game Pass) CHANGE THE PAST. CONTROL THE FUTURE. Alter the course of history and rewrite the future in this steampunk first-person RPG. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 - DMZ First Look Trailer (October 23, 2026) War erupts on the Korean Peninsula as North Korea launches an invasion that threatens to destabilise the world in Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® 4.
    Bancho the Chef Dave the Diver developer Mintrocket revealed a prequel telling the origin story of its sushi master, Bancho the Chef. Marathon Bungie gave us a look at Marathon's second season, Nightfall, which launches today. Unsurprisingly, no mention of Destiny. No Rest for the Wicked The full 1.0 release of Moon Studio's No Rest for the Wicked is coming to PS5 in October. Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve had a story trailer for us. The release date is October 2. Dynasty Warriors 3: Complete Edition Remastered Dynasty Warriors 3: Complete Edition Remastered got a release date of October 1, 2026.
    Valve has announced a significant price hike for its Steam Deck OLED models. The increase, which amounts to nearly £200 in the UK and over 40% in various other regions, is attributed to "rising memory and storage costs." For many fans of portable gaming, this news might come as a disappointment, especially considering the anticipation surrounding the Steam Deck since its launch. The price adjustment reflects the ongoing challenges faced by manufacturers in managing production costs. With the demand for high-quality gaming hardware on the rise, factors such as component shortages and increased material costs have inevitably impacted pricing. While Valve has been a leader in the gaming industry with its innovative products, this change raises questions about accessibility for gamers who are looking to invest in the Steam Deck. The price increase could influence potential buyers, prompting them to reconsider their options or wait for future sales. Here are some key points to consider regarding this price adjustment: Reason for Increase: Valve cites rising memory and storage costs. Impact on Prices: UK prices will rise by nearly £200, with global increases exceeding 40%. Community Reaction: The announcement has prompted discussions among gamers about the affordability of high-end gaming devices. Future Implications: This price change may alter the purchasing decisions of potential Steam Deck buyers. As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, consumers need to stay informed about these developments. It's always a bummer when prices increase, especially for a product that has garnered so much love and attention. The Steam Deck OLED continues to be a game-changer in portable gaming, and while the new prices may deter some, it's essential to weigh the value it provides against the cost. For those of you who are still thinking about getting a Steam Deck, what are your thoughts on the price increase?
    Hey everyone! I've got some exciting news for all you gamers and Discord enthusiasts out there! Recently, a partnership between Xbox Game Pass and Discord Nitro was officially confirmed, and it’s bringing some fantastic new benefits to subscribers. If you’re not familiar, Discord Nitro is a premium subscription that enhances your experience on the popular communication platform, offering features like higher quality video streaming, increased upload limits, and more. Now, as part of this new collaboration, those who subscribe to Discord Nitro will receive a "starter edition" of Xbox Game Pass. This means you can dive into a wide range of games without any extra cost! ### What to Expect: Bundled Benefits: The partnership means that Discord Nitro members will get access to Xbox Game Pass as part of their subscription, allowing them to explore a diverse library of games. Future Enhancements: Both companies have hinted at adding more benefits down the line, making this partnership even more valuable for fans of gaming and community interaction. This collaboration is a fantastic way to enhance your gaming experience while connecting with friends on Discord. Whether you're into multiplayer games or simply enjoy exploring new titles, this is definitely something worth considering. As we see more developments in this partnership, it’ll be interesting to find out what additional features and games may be added, enhancing the overall value for both Discord and Xbox fans. #### Summary: Xbox Game Pass and Discord Nitro have teamed up. Nitro members receive a "starter edition" of Game Pass. More benefits are expected to come in the future. What do you all think of this collaboration? Are you excited to see what new games and features will emerge from this partnership? Let’s discuss! For more details, check out the original article here. Read original article
    Microsoft has just unveiled Xbox Mode on Windows 11, and it's set to deliver that familiar console-like experience directly on your PC. This new feature is rolling out in select markets today, with plans for a wider release in the upcoming weeks. What is Xbox Mode? Xbox Mode is designed to bring a more streamlined, console-inspired gaming experience to Windows 11 users. This means you can expect a more user-friendly interface, optimised settings, and overall enhancements that resemble what you'd find on an Xbox console. Here's a bit more about it: Key Features of Xbox Mode Here are a few highlights of what this mode offers: A simplified interface for easy navigation. Optimised performance settings tailored for gaming. Seamless integration with your Xbox Live account and services. Enhanced controller support for a more console-like feel. The rollout is gradually taking place, so if you don't see it immediately, hang tight! It's worth noting that this initiative aims to bridge the gap between console and PC gaming, making it a great time for gamers who love both platforms.
    If you grew up in the vibrant 80s, surrounded by the colorful world of Masters of the Universe and Rainbow Brite, then get ready to hit that nostalgia button! Blaze Entertainment, through its Hyper Mega Tech division, has just announced the upcoming release of handheld versions of two legendary computers: the ZX Spectrum and the Commodore 64. These devices are designed for those who fondly remember the pixelated graphics and catchy chiptunes of the past. The handhelds promise to deliver a delightful experience, allowing you to relive the magic of classic gaming on-the-go. Imagine taking your favorite retro games with you, easily fitting them in your pocket! Both handheld consoles are set to feature a selection of classic titles, bringing back the joy of old-school gaming. Whether you were a fan of platformers, puzzle games, or adventure titles, there's bound to be something for everyone. This move not only celebrates the rich history of gaming but also caters to a growing interest in retro gaming culture. Both machines are priced at £109.99 and launch on 15th October, with pre-orders open from today. And as is usual for Blaze, Limited Edition versions are being sold exclusively through retailer FunStock. These cost £129.99 and include the handheld, a hardshell travel case, and a magazine. For the Spectrum, that'll be a specially produced version of Crash! magazine, while the C64 includes a version of Zzap! And if you're not familiar with Hyper Mega Tech's other handhelds, namely the Super Pockets (which are set to expand with a new Rare-themed edition this June), they're solidly built things. And with all that out the way, let's end with a big list of included games: THE C64 HANDHELD: A Pig Quest Sam's Journey Nebulus Boulder Dash Speedball 2: Brutal Deluxe Paradroid Hunter's Moon Remastered Knight 'n' Grail Aztec Challenge Krakout Druid Encounter! Galencia Ice Guys It's Magic 2 Lee Metal Warrior Ultra Millie & Molly Planet Golf Shadow Switcher Spherical Squish 'Em Steel Ranger X-Out Yeti Mountain THE SPECTRUM HANDHELD: Head Over Heels Manic Miner Skool Daze Tiny Dungeons Archon The Great Escape Bounder Switchblade Nightmare Rally M.O.V.I.E. Avenger: The Way of the Tiger II Bugaboo the Flea Devwill Too ZX Hammerfist Hammer Knight Penguin Attack S1NCLA1R C1TY Shovel Adventure Snake Escape Sorcerer Kid Adventure Splat! Tourmaline Where Time Stood Still Zynaps Starquake
    It seems like Microsoft is taking a moment to reflect on its gaming strategy, especially with Xbox. Recently, they released their earnings for the first quarter of 2026, and the figures reveal a bit of a dip in revenue when compared to last year. Specifically, both content & services and hardware revenue have seen a decline. The drop in revenue isn't the most uplifting news. Here are some key points regarding the situation: Xbox's content and services revenue has decreased, which could indicate a need for fresh offerings or better engagement with players. Hardware revenue has also taken a hit, suggesting that sales of consoles might not be as robust as anticipated. Microsoft is recognising these challenges and is now focusing on "recommitting to our core fans," which could signal a shift in how they approach game development and community engagement. What This Means for Gamers For us gamers, this could mean a renewed effort from Microsoft to listen to the community and perhaps tailor their offerings more closely to fan expectations. It's a chance for Xbox to innovate and enhance the gaming experience, which we all know is crucial in such a competitive market. While the figures might not be ideal, it looks like Microsoft is gearing up to strengthen ties with its core gaming community. Xbox revenue has declined in both content & services and hardware. Microsoft aims to refocus on core fans in response to these challenges. Potential for new developments and offerings tailored to player needs. It'll be interesting to see how this commitment unfolds and whether it leads to exciting new content or improvements in the Xbox ecosystem.
    It seems Microsoft is making some interesting moves to strengthen the Xbox community identity. Asha Sharma, who's been quite vocal about revitalising Xbox, is at the forefront of this initiative. According to reports from Tom Warren at The Verge, Microsoft is rolling out new Xbox email addresses for users. So, what's the idea behind these new email addresses? Well, it appears to be part of a larger strategy to enhance the connection between gamers and the Xbox brand. Here are a few key points to consider: The new email addresses aim to create a stronger sense of belonging within the Xbox community. It's a step towards making Xbox more than just a gaming platform; it's about building an identity. This move might encourage more interaction and engagement amongst players, fostering a more vibrant community. While it might not seem groundbreaking at first glance, these changes could signal a shift in how Microsoft is approaching its relationship with gamers. They seem to be really focusing on creating a unified and engaging environment. It's intriguing to see how Microsoft is pushing to strengthen the identity of the Xbox community through initiatives like new email addresses. This could lead to a more connected and engaged gaming experience for all of us.
    It looks like Valve has finally put an end to the speculation surrounding the Steam Controller! They've confirmed that the new version will launch on Monday, and the price is set at £84.99. This will be welcomed by gamers who have been eagerly waiting for an upgrade to this unique controller. However, it's worth noting that the much-anticipated Steam Machine and Steam Frame seem to be stuck in limbo due to ongoing RAM shortages. It's a bit of a shame that the other hardware launches have been delayed, but it's great to see Valve pushing ahead with the Steam Controller refresh. What to Expect from the Steam Controller The revamped controller is expected to come with some improvements over its predecessor. Here are a few key features to look out for: Enhanced build quality for better durability Improved haptic feedback for a more immersive gaming experience Customisable buttons to suit different gaming styles The decision to release the Steam Controller independently suggests that Valve is keen to keep the momentum going, even if the rest of the hardware lineup is delayed. The return of the Steam Controller is sure to spark discussions among gamers who have been eager for its comeback. With fresh features and an updated design, it aims to cater to the evolving needs of gamers everywhere. For those who might have missed the initial announcement six months ago, Valve's plans for hardware have always been ambitious, and it's great to see them find a way to bring this controller to market despite the hurdles. As Valve designer Lawrence Yang explained last week, the fact the new Steam Controller contains neither RAM nor storage meant it's escaped the problems facing the company's other hardware. "And so we're announcing and shipping it now because this is when it's ready," he noted. "We didn't artificially hold it back for whatever reason. This is just how long it's taken to get everything ready from a hardware, firmware, software standpoint, as well as building up enough launch quantity and getting it to all of the warehouses around the world so that we can have a good launch quantity on ship day." Valve's Steam Controller revival has been in development since the launch of Steam Deck OLED and was, according to Valve engineer Jeremy Slocum, borne from the team's earlier handheld work. "As we were developing the Steam Deck, a lot of the prototypes we built were very much controller like, but in a handheld form factor, that's the way we dialed in the ergonomics... And even then, we had inklings [that these] set of inputs and this kind of layout could actually make a pretty good controller design. [The controller] was always in our mind, even as we were developing the Steam Deck." And as Steam Deck found its footing, the team "saw that people would dock [the device] and then, if they wanted to play from their couch, those inputs and those configurations that they created for their Steam deck just didn't translate" to any other controller. "It was kind of a hole in the experience that we felt like we wanted to provide", explains Slocum. What do you all think about the Steam Controller's return?
    Beastro - Official Release Date Trailer (May 21, 2026) (Xbox Game Pass) inKONBINI: One Store. Many Stories - Official Gameplay Trailer (April 30, 2026) (Xbox Game Pass) Kalanoro - Official Reveal Trailer (Summer 2026) Speedrunners 2: King of Speed - Official Release Window Trailer (July 2026) (Xbox Game Pass) Golf With Your Friends 2 - Official Trailer (Fall 2026)
    A fresh piece of info has surfaced from industry insider KeplerL2, suggesting that Project Helix, the upcoming project from Microsoft, could be relying on a standard AMD GPU without any custom tweaks. If true, this could represent a significant change in how Microsoft approaches its hardware development. Traditionally, custom GPUs have been a hallmark of their console strategy, aiming to squeeze out every bit of performance. By opting for an off-the-shelf solution, Microsoft might be looking at cost savings and a quicker time to market. Interestingly, KeplerL2 has also revealed that the Project Helix GPU will be capable of around 3,000 TOPS (trillion operations per second) of AI performance, which will be purely dedicated to FSR 5 and neural rendering. The CPU will also have its own NPU (neural processing unit) capable of around 100 TOPS, which has been noted as being only for Microsoft's Copilot software suite. As for what this might mean for the Project Helix GPU on the whole, the fact that there is zero customisation being done by Microsoft itself means that the graphics side of the Magnus APU is likely powered by one of AMD's other GPUs. While the company sells plenty of hardware to consumers, it also has a variety of CPUs and GPUs that are only available for purchase by other companies. As such, there is an equal chance that we might see Project Helix coming equipped with an embedded version of one of AMD's consumer-facing GPUs, or an entirely new one that we can't simply buy the desktop equivalent of at a local store. Key Points to Consider: Standard vs. Custom: The implications of using a standard GPU could affect performance, compatibility, and even the overall gaming experience. Market Strategy: This choice might indicate a shift in Microsoft's strategy, possibly focusing more on software and services rather than hardware. Consumer Reactions: How will gamers respond to this potential change? Will they be excited about affordability, or concerned about performance? This rumour certainly raises a few eyebrows and invites us to think about what it means for the future of gaming consoles. It's fascinating to think about the potential implications of using a standard AMD GPU in Project Helix. While it might simplify things for Microsoft, it also opens up a lot of discussion about performance and strategy.
    Sony has announced that they will be implementing age verification checks for users wanting to access online voice chat and messaging features on PlayStation. This comes as a response to ongoing concerns about online safety, especially for younger players. What's the New Feature About? Starting soon, if you want to use voice chat or send messages on the PlayStation Network, you'll need to go through an age verification process. While the details on how this will work are still a bit vague, the idea is to create a safer environment for all players. This is particularly relevant in light of past issues where younger users might have been exposed to inappropriate content or interactions. Enhanced Safety: By verifying ages, it aims to reduce the risk of harmful interactions among younger users. Community Standards: It reflects a growing trend in the gaming industry to prioritize the safety and well-being of all players, especially minors. User Responsibility: This also places some responsibility on players to ensure they are using the platform appropriately. It's refreshing to see Sony taking steps to ensure a safer gaming experience. It'll be interesting to see how users respond to this change. Will it deter some players, or will it be welcomed as a necessary step forward? PlayStation is stepping up its game by introducing age verification for online communications. It's a move aimed at protecting younger gamers and fostering a healthier online community. Age verification will be mandatory for voice chat and messaging. Aims to enhance safety for younger users. Reflects broader industry trends towards responsible gaming. Feel free to share your thoughts on this new feature, do you think it's a good idea or an unnecessary hassle?
    The BAFTA Games Awards 2026 just wrapped up, and while many anticipated big wins for popular titles like Dispatch, Ghost of Yōtei, and Kingdom Come: Deliverance II, there were a few surprises that kept everyone talking. One of the biggest talking points of the evening was Ghost of Yōtei snagging the award for Best Music, which left many fans scratching their heads since Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 was also in the running. And speaking of surprises, we can't forget the presence of Daredevil star Charlie Cox, who made a special appearance at the ceremony. It was a star-studded night filled with excitement and unexpected wins, reminding us all why we love the gaming community so much! Here's the full list of winners: Animation: Dispatch (AdHoc Studio) Artistic Achievement: Death Stranding 2: On The Beach (Kojima Productions) Audio Achievement: Dispatch (AdHoc Studio) Best Game: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 (Sandfall Interactive) British Game: Atomfall (Rebellion) Debut Game: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 (Sandfall Interactive) Evolving Game: No Man's Sky (Hello Games) Family: LEGO Party! (SMG Studio) Fellowship: Ilkka Paananen (CEO & co-founder of Supercell) Game Beyond Entertainment: Despelote (Julián Cordero, Sebastián Valbuena) Game Design: Blue Prince (Tonda Ros) Multiplayer: Arc Raiders (Embark Studios) Music: Ghost of Yōtei (Sucker Punch) Narrative: Kingdom Come: Deliverance II (Warhorse Studios) New Intellectual Property: South of Midnight (Compulsion Games) Performer in a Leading Role: Jennifer English (Maelle in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33) Performer in a Supporting Role: Jeffrey Wright (Chase in Dispatch) Technical Achievement: Ghost of Yōtei (Sucker Punch)
    My money is on there having been a huge exodus from Game Pass (particularly Ultimate) since the last price increase, and there has been a realisation at Microsoft that it cannot continue as is, and that the idea that people will stick with the service no matter what is charged has been comprehensively disproven. The majority of people who still subscribe to Ultimate are either shielded from the price increases due to local laws, or have already stacked a period of subscription and so again are not paying the increased rates. I'd bet good money that many of those that were not shielded from the price increase last year either dropped to a cheaper tier or left the Service entirely. Either way, I bet Microsoft saw a significant reduction in revenue hence the need to revaluate what they are doing with Game Pass.
    So, it seems like Rockstar Games has found itself in the middle of another hacking incident, and this time the hackers are making some pretty bold claims. They've issued a ransom demand, which is always a worrying sign. The news broke that a hacking group had gained access to their systems, allegedly using a third-party tool called Anodot to pull off the breach. Details of the Breach From what I gather, the hackers managed to snag some authentication tokens, which gave them access to some internal systems. They're claiming to have obtained various types of data, including financial and player information, but Rockstar's response is quite reassuring. They've stated that only a "limited amount of non-material company information" was accessed and that it won't affect the company or its players in any way. Here's a snippet from their statement: "We can confirm that a limited amount of non-material company information was accessed in connection with a third-party data breach. This incident has no impact on our organisation or our players." Sounds confident, doesn't it? History of Breaches This isn't the first time Rockstar has faced such an issue. You might remember the big leak in 2022, when a teenager hacked the company and released a bunch of GTA 6 development materials. That incident was also tied to a third-party application, which raises questions about the security measures in place. It's a bit concerning, really, especially since the hacking group has threatened to leak more if their demands aren't met by the 14th of April. They've been pretty dramatic about it, stating, "Make the right decision. Don't be the next headline. FINAL WARNING: PAY OR LEAK." Despite the hackers' claims, Rockstar appears to be downplaying the severity of this latest incident. Let's hope they manage to keep things under wraps this time. For those interested, you can find more details here.
    Xbox is rolling out a significant update to its achievement system. Starting today, members of the Xbox Insider program will experience a visual refresh and multiple enhancements to how achievements are displayed and interacted with. Key Improvements: Updated icons and animations for unlocking achievements, making the experience feel more personal with colour customisation. Highlighting of games that players have fully completed, allowing for easier recognition of 100% achievers. The ability to hide games from the achievements list, giving users more control over their profile presentation. The new visuals not only make achievements more visually appealing but also add a layer of personalization. The revamped notifications will match custom colours chosen by users, making each achievement unlock feel unique. Furthermore, the highlight feature for fully completed games ensures that players can easily identify and celebrate their accomplishments at a glance. Perhaps one of the most anticipated updates is the option to hide games from the achievements list, a feature that has been requested by many in the community. This flexibility allows players to curate their profiles according to their preferences, whether for a cleaner look or to emphasize particular achievements. These changes are set to provide a more engaging and user-friendly experience, with additional updates expected in the future as Xbox continues to enhance the achievement system. For those interested in seeing the new features in action, the rollout will initially be exclusive to Xbox Insiders, followed by a broader release to all users.
    The recent developments surrounding Steam's user interface signal a significant shift in user experience, particularly for the Steam Workshop. Valve has rolled out a beta version aimed at enhancing the browsing experience, continuing their trend of widening UI elements initiated last year. As detailed in their blog post, this beta introduces several key features. The most visually striking change is the increase in preview image sizes for items, making it easier for users to view content at a glance. Moreover, the filtering process has been optimised for speed, allowing quicker updates when users apply different sort orders. For developers, there are enhancements that enable more specific filtering for various item types within the Workshop. Another noteworthy addition is the quick view option, represented by a magnifying glass icon, which allows users to engage with item details - such as screenshots, favorites, and voting - without navigating away from the current page. This is particularly beneficial for mobile and Steam Deck users, as the new layout is designed to be more responsive across different devices. Valve has indicated that this beta could last from weeks to months as they gather feedback and work out any potential issues. They also plan to update more Workshop pages in the future, although a timeline for those changes has not yet been established. These updates reflect Valve's commitment to improving the Steam Workshop experience, with a focus on usability and accessibility for all users.
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